Book Review: Appetizers by Martha Stewart

Martha Stewart’s cookbook Appetizers features recipes for over 200 hors d’oeuvres, dips, spreads, tapas, and other small plates. Appetizers is an essential reference for anyone who loves to entertain.

I received a complimentary review copy through Blogging For Books. Right from the start, I was impressed with this hardbound, colorful book. The images are beautifully styles and the food looks delicious.

On the downside, this book intimidates me. Normally, I like to prepare a recipe before posting a cookbook review. To be fair, there are plenty of delicious recipes that are simple enough for me. I am sure I will prepare a few for Christmas or a New Years party. I suppose what really intimidated me was the image illustrating the ceviche section. Some ceviches were shown served in little shell shaped lettuce leafs containing a tiny amount of ceviche (like a shrimp and a carefully coiled calamari ring)!

What I liked About Appetizers By Martha Stewart

This book is beautifully illustrated; I am learning about food styling and presentation from looking at the pictures.

It contains over 200 recipes, with so many options there are recipes for any preference or dietary needs.

Appetizers includes useful reference segments such as “Golden Rules for Hosting a Party” (a list of ten tips), Party Planning Strategies, and a section on drinks (either with or without alcohol).

The recipes are well organized by these with a few variations.

Some of the recipes do not appeal to me, but many look delicious.

What I Wish Was Different

As mentioned, I am slightly intimidated by the styling of some recipes. However, this is a tiny issue because I would simply adapt to my own style. Considering the variety and attention to detail, it is hard to find fault.

The recipes lack nutrition information. My preference would be to see it included. However, I fully understand these are party foods so many readers will not mind. Some of the recipes are quite healthy, and I think some hosts may desire basic nutrition information to help them choose a few healthy options (or a healthy party!).

My Overall impression of Appetizers By Martha Stewart

I feel this is a wonderful reference for anyone who likes to entertain or who is planning to entertain. When I eat out, I am always most interested in the tapas, small plates, starter menu and would love to enjoy an evening tasting some of these recipes.

Appetizers is also a thoughtful gift idea for your favorite aspiring host, hostess or chef.

Summary of Martha Stewart’s Appetizers

Summary from the publisher: Hors d’oeuvres made modern: Today’s style of entertaining calls for fuss-free party foods that are easy to make and just as delicious as ever. With more than 200 recipes for tasty pre-dinner bites, substantial small plates, special occasion finger foods, and quick snacks to enjoy with drinks, Martha Stewart’s Appetizers is the new go-to guide for any get-together.

About Martha Stewart

MARTHA STEWART is the author of dozens of best-selling books on cooking, entertaining, homekeeping, gardening, weddings, and decorating. She is the host of The Martha Stewart Show, the Emmy-winning daily syndicated television program, and founder of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, which publishes several magazines, including Martha Stewart Living;produces Martha Stewart Living Radio; and provides a wealth of ideas and information on www.marthastewart.com. (Source publicity materials from Penguin Random House)

Where To Purchase Appetizers By Martha Stewart

Martha Stewart’s Appetizers is available through many book retailers. For your convenience, I will share a link to Appetizers on Amazon in hardcover or Kindle formats.

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